To Adopt Daylight Saving Time Permanently; Concerning Daylight Saving Time; And To Amend The Duties Of The Secretary Of State.
Impact
Should HB1104 pass, it would necessitate changes to existing state laws that govern timekeeping and could have broader implications on businesses, schools, and community activities that rely on having daylight during certain hours. The bill includes provisions for the Secretary of State to monitor potential changes at the federal level that might allow states to implement DST permanently, ensuring Arkansas can adopt this change when legally permissible.
Summary
House Bill 1104 proposes the adoption of Daylight Saving Time (DST) as the permanent standard time for the State of Arkansas, shifting away from the traditional practice of reverting to Standard Time in the winter months. The intention of the bill is to ensure that Arkansas remains on DST year-round, aligning its timekeeping with various states and possibly improving economic and social activities that can benefit from increased daylight during evening hours.
Contention
While proponents argue that permanent DST would enhance productivity, reduce energy consumption, and improve public safety by maximizing daylight, opponents might raise concerns regarding the health effects of permanent time changes, particularly the disruption of natural circadian rhythms. Furthermore, there may be discussions on the potential implications for interstate synchronization of time, especially for commerce and travel in bordering regions that may not adopt the same changes.
Additional_notes
The bill emphasizes the role of the Secretary of State in continually assessing federal legislation related to timekeeping, indicating a proactive stance towards regional alignment on time observance. This highlights the interplay between state initiatives and federal regulations that often govern such matters.
To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Acts Of 2023, To Regulate Digital Asset Mining Businesses And Businesses Utilizing A Blockchain Network, And To Declare An Emergency.
To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.